Your dog's ability to focus is key to being able to train him effectively. Eliminating as many distractions as possible can assist you in the training process, so try putting him in a quiet area that he knows. The use of your dog's name is a common way to get his attention, but the problem is that he's used to hearing his name for many different purposes, such as praising, or even disciplining. So, to achieve total focus in the pursuit of doggy education, you should have an alternative method for bringing his concentration to you.

Part One

Start by training your dog after you have been away from him for several hours, such as when you come home from work, or in the mornings when you wake up (assuming he sleeps far away on his dog bed, not on your bed with you). When you've been out of touch with the dog for a period of time, he's more likely to want to pay attention to you to begin with since he's not seen you for awhile. Also, make sure you walk him before starting, to help burn a little energy and make sure he won't be distracted by the need to do his business. Keep the walk calm and free from a lot play or talking. Once you're back inside, leave his leash on. This will give you the ability to control him a little better.

Part Two

What better way to condition a preferred respone from your dog than to give him treats to reward positive behavior. Your regular dog food might work, but I'll suggest picking a munchie that you know your dog will respond to, and keep it handy. Also, if your dog has just been fed, he may not show as much interest in your goody, so it may be better do conduct your training sessions while he's hungry.

Part Three

Dog's respond to food, and you eat food through your face, so you can try eating little bit of food as he watches you. If he's looking at the food as you eat, it automatically makes him look at your face. You can even let little pieces of snacks fall at your dog - whatever food works for him. If you have a little dog or puppy, get down on the floor and allow the food to from your mouth. He'll be apt to come right up to your face and take the food away.

Part Four

Good buzz words for the command to get your dog to pay attention to you can be words like "ready," "look," or "focus." Any word you want to use will work, as long as you use it consistently. Say your dog's name just before giving him his focus command. Using a clicker or making a clucking sound from your mouth will help catch his attention as well.

In review, here's the procedure: 1) Dog's name. 2) Command - "ready". 3) Clicking sound from mouth. 4) Reward as your dog gives you attention. 5) Release from steady command - "okay" or "free".